home cleaning – Blog | 皇冠体育app /blog Excellence in Real Estate Since 1965 Thu, 20 Jul 2023 19:40:27 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.6 Deep Clean Your Kitchen in One Day /blog/deep-clean-your-kitchen-in-one-day /blog/deep-clean-your-kitchen-in-one-day#respond Thu, 20 Jul 2023 19:40:23 +0000 /blog/?p=5940 A clean kitchen is crucial for maintaining a healthy environment and ensuring safe and delicious food. However, finding the time or desire to deep clean can be challenging. The good news is that you do not need multiple days and hours to achieve a sparkling-clean kitchen. With expert advice and handy tips, you can deep … Continue reading Deep Clean Your Kitchen in One Day

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A woman celebrating after deep cleaning the kitchen in one day.

A clean kitchen is crucial for maintaining a healthy environment and ensuring safe and delicious food. However, finding the time or desire to deep clean can be challenging. The good news is that you do not need multiple days and hours to achieve a sparkling-clean kitchen. With expert advice and handy tips, you can deep clean your kitchen in just one day. This article provides effective techniques and tricks to tackle tough grime and grease, transforming your kitchen into a spotless and inviting space.

Why Deep Cleaning Your Kitchen Matters

Deep cleaning your kitchen offers several benefits. It maintains a hygienic food storage and preparation environment, prevents pests and insects, and enhances overall appearance and functionality. Additionally, it reduces the spread of germs and bacteria, especially during cold and flu seasons.

Essential Supplies for Deep Cleaning Your Kitchen

To speed things along, it is best to prepare for your deep cleaning job. Before you start, gather the necessary supplies:

  • Bucket or basin
  • Cleaning gloves
  • All-purpose cleaner
  • Degreaser
  • Microfiber cloths
  • Scrubbing brush
  • Sponge
  • Oven cleaner
  • Glass cleaner
  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar

Step-by-Step Guide to Efficiently Deep Clean Your Kitchen

Now let us dive into a step-by-step guide to efficiently deep cleaning your kitchen in just one day:

Step 1: Declutter and Organize

Begin by removing all items from countertops, cabinets, and drawers. Sort and discard expired, damaged, or unnecessary items. Organize the remaining items into categories for easy access.听 By starting with cleared cabinets and counters, it will be easy to spot crumbs, dust, and other particles that you will want to clean up.

Step 2: Clean Your Appliances

Start with the oven and microwave- two appliances that are frequently skipped during quick kitchen cleanups. Apply an oven cleaner and let it sit, then wipe down the inside with a damp cloth. If your oven has an oven cleaning setting, we recommend running this cycle before using the cleaning products.听 This high-heat setting will help burn off a good portion of the particles inside the oven, meaning you will likely need less oven cleaner.

by mixing water and vinegar in a small bowl and microwaving it for a few minutes.听 The steam will help break down the hard-to-clean grime.听 Next, use a cloth to wipe down the inside, including the glass tray.听 If you do not have vinegar on hand, lemon or baking soda can easily be substituted.

Step 3: Clean Cabinets and Countertops

Wipe down countertops and the inside of cabinets with an all-purpose cleaner. If you run into particularly stubborn stains, grime, or oil, you may need to use a degreaser and scrubbing brush. We recommend testing a small, discreet area of your counter or cabinet when using strong cleaning materials to make sure it does not damage or bleach it. Finish by wiping everything down with a damp cloth so there is no remaining residue.

Step 4: Clean Your Sink

There are several ways to tackle one of the dirtiest areas of the home: the sink.听 The most is to fill the sink with warm water and add a few small capfuls of bleach. Let the bleach water sit for several minutes, drain the sink, and then wipe it down with a microfiber cloth.听 As an alternative to bleach, you can mix warm water, baking soda, and white vinegar. Regardless of the products you use, remember to address the faucet and the faucet handles- they are often just as dirty as the sink!

Step 5: Clean Your Floors

Begin by sweeping and vacuuming the floors to remove dirt and debris. Follow up with a mop or steam cleaner for a thorough clean. If you have tile floors with stained grout, use a grout cleaner to restore its appearance.

For the sake of time, remember to finish your deep clean with your floors! Cleaning appliances, counters, and cabinets mean that debris falls on the floor even with the best efforts to contain it. Avoiding sweeping and vacuuming multiple times by getting it all in one swoop at the end.

Tips for Cleaning Difficult Areas

Here are some tips for effectively cleaning hard-to-reach places:

  • Use a toothbrush to clean grout and tight spaces.
  • Employ a steam cleaner for appliances.
  • Apply a degreaser to remove stubborn stains or grease buildup.
  • Utilize a microfiber cloth for stainless steel appliances and mirrors.

Maintaining a Clean Kitchen

You do not want your deep cleaning efforts to go to waste. After deep cleaning, establish a routine for maintaining cleanliness:

  • Wipe down countertops and the sink after each use.
  • Sweep or vacuum floors daily (or as often as you can).
  • Regularly clean appliances.
  • Declutter and organize the kitchen weekly.
  • Use a lidded trash can to prevent pests and insects.
  • Address spills as quickly as possible.  Often tough-to clean stains and grime are easy to clean up with a little baking soda or cleaning product when it first happens.

Benefits of a Clean Kitchen

Maintaining a clean kitchen provides several benefits:

  • Ensures a healthy environment for food storage and preparation.
  • Reduces the spread of germs and bacteria.
  • Prevents pests and insects.
  • Enhances the overall appearance and functionality of the kitchen.

Deep cleaning your kitchen does not have to be overwhelming. With these expert tips, you can achieve a sparkling-clean kitchen in just one day. Remember to declutter, clean appliances, cabinets, countertops, sinks, and floors, and use the appropriate supplies for challenging areas. Maintaining a clean kitchen will create a healthy and inviting space for cooking and entertaining.

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Creating a Healthy Home: Design Tips for Enhancing Wellness /blog/creating-a-healthy-home-design-tips-for-enhancing-wellness /blog/creating-a-healthy-home-design-tips-for-enhancing-wellness#respond Mon, 17 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0000 /blog/?p=5919 As more people embrace remote work and spend increased time at home, the impact of our living environment on our overall well-being becomes ever more apparent. The state of our home directly affects our physical and mental health, whether we commute to the office or not. Arriving at a cluttered and dirty home can generate … Continue reading Creating a Healthy Home: Design Tips for Enhancing Wellness

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A family enjoying the living room in their healthy home environment.

As more people embrace remote work and spend increased time at home, the impact of our living environment on our overall well-being becomes ever more apparent. The state of our home directly affects our physical and mental health, whether we commute to the office or not.

Arriving at a cluttered and dirty home can generate unnecessary stress. It is crucial to ensure that your living space promotes cleanliness, safety, and good health. Whether you are constructing a new house or renovating your existing one, there are several steps you can take to design a healthy home that nurtures well-being.

From maintaining air quality to selecting non-toxic building materials, there are numerous ways to cultivate a healthier home environment. Simple tasks like regularly changing bedding and keeping the bathroom clean contribute significantly to the positive spirits and well-being of you and your family.

The Importance of Clean Air in Your Home

A man deep breathing while doing yoga in his home.

As wildfires become more frequent and outdoor air quality declines, it is crucial to prioritize the air quality inside your home. Breathing in indoor air pollution can lead to various health problems, including respiratory illnesses and even cancer.

Even when outdoor air quality is good, certain indoor activities can affect the air you breathe. Smoking and secondhand smoke are well-known for causing numerous health issues and cancers. Everyday activities like cooking, cleaning, and painting can release pollutants into the air. Allergens like dust and mold also impact indoor air quality.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to maintain clean air in your home. Installing a vent hood or using a microwave fan while cooking can help remove smoke and cooking oil particles from the kitchen. Regularly changing air filters in your HVAC system is another simple way to improve air quality.

Consider using natural cleaning products that do not emit harmful chemicals into the air. Look for green cleaning products made from plant-based materials and be mindful of any allergies you may have.

If you do use chemical products, follow the instructions carefully and avoid mixing them. Mixing certain chemicals can create toxic gases, so it is important to use them separately and as directed.

Adding indoor plants can also help filter the air naturally. Snake plants, peace lilies, spider plants, pothos, ferns, and rubber trees are all excellent choices for improving indoor air quality. Visit a local greenhouse for advice on which plants will work best in your home. NASA recommends having to enhance air quality and create a healthy home.

Proper ventilation is crucial as well. Implementing improved ventilation strategies, such as opening windows to let in fresh air and enhancing natural airflow, can greatly benefit your home’s air quality. Lastly, if you smoke, avoid smoking indoors. Cigarette smoke lingers in the air and clings to fabrics, posing a significant health risk to both smokers and non-smokers. Step outside to smoke and limit secondhand smoke exposure within your household, especially for children and those with compromised immune systems.

Choosing Non-Toxic Building Materials and Furniture

You might be surprised to discover that many couches contain toxic chemicals. Some furniture brands use stains and finishes that are made with harmful substances. While flame retardants may seem like a good idea for fire safety, prolonged exposure to these chemicals can have negative effects on your health.

The good news is that now is a great time to find non-toxic and . Look for building materials and furniture made from renewable, upcycled, or recycled materials. If a wooden table can naturally decompose when left outdoors, it is a great non-toxic option.

Furniture with natural fabrics is less likely to contain harmful dyes and finishes. Look for third-party certifications to ensure you bring responsibly sourced furniture into your healthy home.

Opt for furniture and building materials that use low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) paints and finishes. VOCs are chemicals that can be released into the air, causing various health issues. Choosing non-toxic paint or wood finish for your home helps ensure the safety of you and your family.

While natural and sustainable materials are more readily available, it still requires some effort to find them. Buying locally and choosing sustainable pieces reduces your carbon footprint and promotes a healthier home environment.

Locations such as California have implemented strict legislation to help consumers avoid toxic building materials and furniture. Furniture tags often carry warnings for California buyers, so if you see such a warning, consider exploring other options.

In Europe, there are also stringent rules that prohibit certain chemicals commonly used in furniture production in the United States. Staying informed about these bans can help you create a healthier home using natural and sustainable materials. Investing a bit more in non-toxic furniture may seem daunting at first but remember that high-quality materials will ensure the longevity of your furniture. Cheaper options made from modified wood may not last as long and could potentially harm your health.

Tips for Clean and Safe Water

A person filling a glass of water from the sink.

Have you ever been surprised by the taste of tap water when traveling to a different city? Different municipalities treat water differently, and it can affect its taste and quality. However, there are several things you can do to ensure the water in your home is safe and clean.

Drinking contaminated water can lead to various health problems, including bacterial infections and chemical-related illnesses. Even if your water seems clean, its day-to-day quality can impact your skin and hair health. Hard water, for example, leaves mineral deposits that affect the natural pH balance of your skin. It can also harm air-purifying houseplants if used for watering.

Testing your drinking water is simple with online kits that provide valuable insights into its quality. In cases where resources for improving water filtration are limited, water purification tablets can offer a quick fix.

Investing in a water filtration system is one of the easiest ways to improve your home’s water quality. There are various types and sizes available to suit your needs. A reverse osmosis filter, for instance, effectively removes chemicals and contaminants, ensuring clean water flows through your home. Regular cleaning and disinfection of any water storage systems are essential to maintain water cleanliness.

Water softeners are useful for removing hard minerals from your plumbing system and preventing buildup in pipes. Soft water is also beneficial for cleaning clothes, dishes, and bathing, as it is gentler on the skin. Faucet aerators can help diffuse water, making it healthier to drink.

By implementing filters, aerators, and staying on top of plumbing maintenance, you can minimize health issues associated with chlorine and other contaminants in your drinking water. If you encounter plumbing problems, check if your or insurance covers the repairs to restore your system and ensure clean water as soon as possible.

Maintaining a Clean and Organized Home: Benefits for Physical and Mental Health

A woman decluttering, an important step in creating a healthy home environment.

A cluttered home can have negative impacts on both your physical and mental well-being. It hides dust, mold, and trash, reminding you of unfinished tasks and overwhelming responsibilities. However, having a clean and well-organized home is essential.

Ensuring your belongings fit on shelves, in closets, or drawers is crucial for a healthy home environment. Clutter is closely tied to procrastination and feeling overwhelmed. Taking small steps to tackle problem areas can provide immediate relief.

For instance, clearing off your dresser’s surface not only improves sleep quality but also makes dusting easier, preventing allergy symptoms and asthma attacks.

When decluttering, start with small areas and gradually work through your home. Sort items into piles to keep, donate, or throw away. Embrace the by considering whether each item brings you joy. If not, set it aside to bring joy to someone else’s life.

If you lack time or feel overwhelmed, consider hiring a professional home organization service to help with specific areas. They can guide you in sorting belongings and establishing systems to prevent future issues.

After decluttering, focus on getting organized. Everything should have a designated place. Establishing a regular cleaning routine is essential, and numerous online resources offer weekly or daily schedules to suit your lifestyle. With fewer items, there will be less to pick up.

Staying on top of cleaning and maintenance prevents the accumulation of dust, mold, and allergens in your home. A neat and organized pantry promotes healthy food choices and aids in pest control. Regular shower scrubbing prevents the formation of mold and mildew.

Whenever possible, opt for natural, non-toxic cleaning products to reduce the release of harmful VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) into the air. Pay attention to the ingredients, especially if you have pets, as some essential oils can be harmful to them.

Proper storage and organization are key to maintaining your new cleaning routine. Numerous methods and tools are available, including professional home organizers, books, social media accounts, and PDF guides. Find a system that works for you to keep your home clean and your mind calm.

Conclusion

Creating a healthy home involves considering every aspect of your living space. By focusing on improving indoor air and water quality, you can enhance the overall health of your home. Investing in non-toxic furniture and building materials is essential to protect yourself and your family from harmful VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). Additionally, incorporating natural sunlight into your home will help you reconnect with nature and uplift your spirits.

Your home should be a sanctuary, providing safety and enjoyment for you and your loved ones. Keeping a clean and decluttered space is not only beneficial for your physical health but also for your mental well-being.

Take the first step towards transforming your home into a healthy haven today. It can be as simple as ordering new air filters or making conscious choices when selecting furniture and building materials. Embrace the opportunity to create a space that promotes wellness and enhances your overall quality of life.

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Preparing Your Home for Guests /blog/preparing-your-home-for-guests /blog/preparing-your-home-for-guests#respond Mon, 15 May 2023 20:34:02 +0000 /blog/?p=5872 Welcoming guests into your home can be an exciting and fulfilling experience, but it also requires a lot of preparation. Whether you are expecting friends, family, or even strangers, it is important to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that will make your guests feel comfortable and at home. From tidying and decluttering to adding … Continue reading Preparing Your Home for Guests

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A young couple welcoming guests into their home.

Welcoming guests into your home can be an exciting and fulfilling experience, but it also requires a lot of preparation. Whether you are expecting friends, family, or even strangers, it is important to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that will make your guests feel comfortable and at home. From tidying and decluttering to adding personal touches and thoughtful amenities, there are many ways to prepare your home for guests and make their stay memorable and enjoyable. In this article, we will share some practical tips and creative ideas to help you create a welcoming space for your guests, no matter the occasion.

Cleaning and Organizing Tips

Before your guests arrive, cleaning and organizing your home is important to create a welcoming environment. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Clean high-traffic areas: High-traffic areas such as the entryway, living room, and guest bathroom should be thoroughly cleaned. This includes dusting surfaces, vacuuming carpets, and mopping floors.

Declutter and make room for guests: Clutter can make a room feel cramped and uncomfortable. To make more room for your guests, declutter your home before they arrive. This can include organizing shelves and closets, removing unnecessary furniture, and tidying up personal items.

Provide fresh linens and towels: One of the most important steps to creating a welcoming environment is to provide fresh linens and towels for your guests. This includes clean bedding, towels, and washcloths. Extra towels and linens are often appreciated!

Decoration and Ambiance

Decoration and ambiance can significantly impact your guests’ comfort in your home. Here are a few tips to help you create a cozy and inviting atmosphere:

Set the mood with lighting and music: The proper lighting and music can help create a warm and inviting environment. Consider soft lighting and soothing music to help your guests feel relaxed.

Decorate with fresh flowers and plants: Fresh flowers and plants can add a touch of color and life to your home. Place a vase of flowers on the kitchen table or put a few plants in the living room to create a fresh and inviting atmosphere.

Create a cozy and inviting atmosphere: Comfortable furniture, soft blankets, and fluffy pillows can help create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home. Consider accessorizing the couch with a few throws and pillows to make it more comfortable for your guests.

Food and Beverage Considerations

Every event is complete with food and drink. Below are some tips to help you plan a menu that meets the dietary needs and preferences of your guests:

Plan menus and accommodate dietary restrictions: Plan what you will serve before your guests arrive and ask about food allergies or restrictions prior to your shopping trip. For example, ensure plenty of vegan-friendly options if you have a vegan guest. Having an idea of what to prepare and what to avoid will prevent last-minute trips to the store and scrambling to put a meal together.

Set up a bar or drink station: A drink station can be a fun and easy way to provide drinks for your guests. Consider setting up a self-serve bar with various drinks or create a signature cocktail for your guests.

Provide snacks and treats: Snacks and treats can be a great way to keep your guests satisfied and happy. For example, provide a bowl of nuts, a plate of cheese and crackers, or a tray of cookies for your guests. Setting out snacks will help your guests feel at home without having to search through the cabinets and refrigerator.

Entertainment and Activities

Entertainment and activities can help keep your guests busy and having fun. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Suggest activities and games: , card games, and other activities are a great way to keep your guests entertained. Set out a few games for your guests or organize a group activity like a scavenger hunt or movie night.

Provide information about local attractions and events: If your guests are coming from out of town, they may be interested in exploring the local area. Please provide information about local attractions and events to help them plan their stay. You are not required to participate in every outing!

Create a comfortable space for conversation and relaxation: Finally, it is important to create a comfortable space where your guests can relax and converse. This can include arranging seating to encourage conversation, providing blankets and pillows, and creating a cozy atmosphere with candles or dim lighting.

Preparing your home for guests can be a lot of work but creating a warm and inviting environment for your loved ones is worth the effort. You can ensure your guests have an enjoyable stay by cleaning and organizing your home, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere, planning menus, considering dietary restrictions, and providing entertainment and activities. So, the next time you host guests, prioritize their comfort and enjoyment – your efforts will be appreciated and remembered for years.

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Should You Hire a Cleaning Service? /blog/should-you-hire-a-cleaning-service /blog/should-you-hire-a-cleaning-service#respond Mon, 27 Jan 2020 17:51:22 +0000 /blog/?p=4362 We can all agree that cleaning our homes is a necessity, but we don鈥檛 always make it a priority. That鈥檚 where a cleaning service comes in. While it may not be in everyone鈥檚 budget, a professional cleaning service can truly help you out — and more often than not, you鈥檒l find that they鈥檙e worth every … Continue reading Should You Hire a Cleaning Service?

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We can all agree that cleaning our homes is a necessity, but we don鈥檛 always make it a priority. That鈥檚 where a cleaning service comes in. While it may not be in everyone鈥檚 budget, a professional cleaning service can truly help you out — and more often than not, you鈥檒l find that they鈥檙e worth every penny. Here鈥檚 why you should consider hiring a professional cleaning service sooner rather than later.

They can clean the hard-to-reach or inconvenient places

We鈥檙e talking about your baseboards, the area around your toilet, the inside of your refrigerator…these places aren鈥檛 the most convenient to clean. A professional cleaning service can clean your home from top to bottom and make sure all the nooks and crannies are spotless. So you won鈥檛 have to worry about dust or grime buildup that can lead to problems with your health and home in the long run — because a cleaning service will ensure your home is spotless!

If you find yourself dreading cleaning鈥

Then you should probably consider hiring a cleaning service. If you work full time or are constantly on the move, whether you have kids or not, and you鈥檙e always dreading having to clean, then a professional service is probably a good call. Chances are, if you鈥檙e constantly dreading the idea of having to clean your home, then you鈥檙e probably always putting it off until you can鈥檛 anymore. In this case, hiring a cleaning service will be a weight lifted off your shoulders — and more than likely, your home will be even cleaner since you won鈥檛 have to be the one doing the tidying and disinfecting in a grumpy or tired mood.听

You host guests often 

If you often host guests at your home and feel overwhelmed at the thought of having to keep your home spotless all the time, then having professional cleaners regularly come to your home could be worth it for you. A regular cleaning service that is scheduled to come every week or every other week will help you make sure that, at any given time, your home still feels clean and tidy. So when you host guests for the planned or impromptu occasion, you know that your home may not always be spotless, but it hasn鈥檛 been long since it was last cleaned, either.

It frees up time for you

Let鈥檚 face it: cleaning is hard work and it takes up a lot of time! And if you鈥檙e a busy parent or a worker bee, then probably the last thing you want to do throughout your week is make sure your home is clean. Hiring a cleaning service will likely free up hours of your time every month — and time is money. So if you鈥檇 rather pay someone to do the cleaning for you so that you can spend more time doing the things you love, that is probably much more valuable to you than cleaning your home yourself.

If it fits within your budget 

Overall, your decision to hire a cleaning service will have to come down to your personal budget. If you have some room in your budget and you are financially able to hire a professional cleaning service for your home, then go for it! Even if you want to just pay for one session first to test out if the price will be worth it for you, we suggest hiring cleaners and trying it out before committing.听

This post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. The point of view and opinions expressed in this post are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of 皇冠体育app International. This post was written by Bailee Abell. Bailee Abell is a writer born and raised in California. A graduate of University of California, Santa Barbara, she loves reading classic literature, sipping warm beverages, and visiting theme parks every chance she gets. Find her at 

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Spring cleaning: Optimize your cleaning time /blog/optimize-spring-cleaning /blog/optimize-spring-cleaning#comments Thu, 23 Mar 2017 20:38:46 +0000 /blog/?p=1750 According to The Maids, spring cleaning typically takes at least four hours per 1,000 square feet. 鈥淵ou can clean virtually any house in about four hours a week. I learned this when I had a residential house cleaning business,鈥 says Sherry Hewins. 鈥淭he keys to being able to clean your house are organization and consistency.鈥 … Continue reading Spring cleaning: Optimize your cleaning time

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Optimize spring cleaning

According to , spring cleaning typically takes at least four hours per 1,000 square feet.

鈥淵ou can clean virtually any house in about four hours a week. I learned this when I had a residential house cleaning business,鈥 says . 鈥淭he keys to being able to clean your house are organization and consistency.鈥

Although you don鈥檛 have to spring clean your home every weekend, getting organized and optimizing the task to make the process more efficient should help keep it as short and sweet as possible.

Select chores based on how much time you have to clean

What to clean depending on how much time you have available:

TimeKitchenBathroomGeneral
1 鈥 3 hours鈥 Wipe down kitchen counters
鈥 Clean/disinfect kitchen sink
鈥 Clean inside microwave
鈥 Wipe down stove top
鈥 Clean garbage disposal
鈥 Wipe down bathroom counters/vanity and mirror
鈥 Clean/disinfect bathroom sink and toilet
鈥 Scrub tub, shower walls, tile and grout
鈥 Clean shower racks
鈥 Declutter
鈥 Dust furniture and surfaces
鈥 Sweep, mop and polish floors
4 鈥 8 hours鈥 Clean/polish kitchen appliances
鈥 Clean stove top, drip pans and knobs
鈥 Clean inside refrigerator and freezer
鈥 Clean the oven
鈥 Vacuum floors and upholstered furniture
鈥 Polish/treat furniture
鈥 Disinfect door knobs, light switches, remote controls
鈥 Dust/clean cords and cables
鈥 Clean door frames
9 鈥 12 hours鈥 Wipe down and clean inside kitchen cabinets
鈥 Clean behind oven and refrigerator
鈥 Clean fridge's condenser coils or fan
鈥 Clean dishwasher
鈥 Clean/degrease range hood and filter
鈥 Empty and clean pantry, including floor and door
鈥 Clean inside bathroom cabinets鈥 Vacuum mattress
鈥 Wash pillows
鈥 Clean windows and window screens
鈥 Wash and replace curtains
鈥 Clean blinds
鈥 Clean lamp shades, light fixtures and ceiling fans
鈥 Vacuum and wash rugs/carpets, including stairs and closets
鈥 Clean behind and under furniture
鈥 Wipe down walls, including areas around plugs/switches
鈥 Dust vents and replace air filters
鈥 Clean dryer vent
鈥 Sanitize wastebaskets

How to maintain your appliances without voiding your home warranty

Use apps and checklists

Top-rated apps like (free, Android) and ($3.99, iOS) have everything from checklists and reminders, to cleaning playlists and how-to videos. You can gamify your spring cleaning, split chores up between everyone in the house, or schedule them out.

Cleaning hacks

鈥淣obody wants to spend all their time cleaning,鈥 says blogger and life hacker . Her cleaning hacks range from removing water stains from a table with a blow-dryer, to cleaning tight spaces with the tip of a ketchup bottle, and have been pinned 70,000 times.

YouTube is a good resource for cleaning hacks that have been tried and tested, with how-to videos typically offering detailed instructions that are easy to follow.

Take strategic breaks

Research shows that productivity increases if you incorporate frequent breaks into your work. 鈥淓very 90 minutes, our body tells us to take a break from what we鈥檙e doing because it鈥檚 getting tired,鈥 explains productivity expert , adding that breaks a good way to refresh your focus.

Breaks are also a good time to hydrate and eat something to replenish your energy.

Do you have any spring cleaning tips to share?

 


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How to remove pet allergens from your new home /blog/remove-pet-allergens-from-new-home /blog/remove-pet-allergens-from-new-home#respond Wed, 21 Dec 2016 06:45:37 +0000 /blog/?p=1527 You鈥檝e found the home of your dreams, the paperwork is signed and the keys are in hand. What do you do if your new home was once shared with a four-legged friend that you or one of your family members are allergic to? Read on for tips and ideas to help everyone in your household … Continue reading How to remove pet allergens from your new home

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Cat and dog

You鈥檝e found the home of your dreams, the paperwork is signed and the keys are in hand. What do you do if your new home was once shared with a four-legged friend that you or one of your family members are allergic to? Read on for tips and ideas to help everyone in your household breathe a little easier.

Use a HEPA vacuum cleaner

While bacteria, dust mites and pet dander are most often found in furniture and beds that get moved out of the home before new owners arrive, carpeting is often a haven for allergens that even thorough cleaning can leave behind. Using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter can bring relief by removing irritants from carpeting.

Install washable window treatments

Window shades and washable drapes are also a better choice for allergy sufferers, compared to long drapes and blinds that can collect dust and are more difficult to clean, according to .

Invest in new flooring

Bare floors are the best bet if you want to reduce pet allergens in your home.听鈥淎nimal allergens are sticky. So you must remove the animal’s favorite furniture, remove wall-to-wall carpet and scrub the walls and woodwork,鈥 reports the . Consider replacing old carpeting with hardwood floors or tile.

Get your air ducts professionally cleaned

Although there is no scientific evidence to support claims that air duct cleanings improve air quality, the system components of forced air systems can become contaminated with dust, pollen and other allergens. 鈥It is surprising how much garbage you can find in your ducts,” says allergist and immunologist听.

According to the听 you should consider a duct cleaning if your ducts are clogged with debris and contaminants, which are then released into your home. However, the EPA also notes that service providers could further contaminate your system if they don鈥檛 clean all of the components properly, so enlisting the help of qualified professionals is key. The EPA also suggests asking your service provider about any chemical treatments that they plan to use before they do so because these practices are not backed by data.

Food for thought

Moving into a new environment can trigger allergic reactions that you鈥檝e never experienced before. For example, affect nearly 4% of all people with allergies. Horse dander is often found hundreds of yards away from the source, which means you don鈥檛 necessarily have to own horse property yourself to be affected. Be sure to thoroughly research and explore potential neighborhoods and to ask about area allergens before closing the deal on your new house.

If you or a family member begin experiencing symptoms in a new city or environment, check in with your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. 鈥淚t is important to work with your doctor to learn what triggers your allergies and determine the best treatments for you to enjoy your life unencumbered by allergies,鈥 says Dr. Cary Sennett, AAFA鈥檚 president and CEO.


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How to maintain your appliances without voiding your home warranty (Infographic) /blog/how-to-maintain-your-appliances-infographic /blog/how-to-maintain-your-appliances-infographic#respond Fri, 18 Nov 2016 19:28:53 +0000 /blog/?p=1437 For many home buyers, purchasing a basic home warranty for around $350-500 annually is a cost they are willing to incur in order to protect themselves from expensive repairs or appliance replacements. First-time home buyers in particular should not overlook the advantages of investing in a basic or upgraded home warranty, according to the National … Continue reading How to maintain your appliances without voiding your home warranty (Infographic)

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For many home buyers, purchasing a basic home warranty for around $350-500 annually is a cost they are willing to incur in order to protect themselves from expensive repairs or appliance replacements. First-time home buyers in particular should not overlook the advantages of investing in a basic or upgraded home warranty, according to the . 听

Whether you are considering your home warranty options now or are already covered, you can take simple steps to fend off appliance breakdown. 听While 鈥淒IY鈥 major repair attempts can actually void your warranty, keeping up a regular maintenance schedule will extend the life of your appliances and improve performance.

Check out these recommendations from the experts at :

Dishwasher

Deodorizing the interior, cleaning the filter and replacing dish racks will help keep your dishes sparkling.

dishwasher maintenance

Refrigerator

Your fridge is one of the hardest working appliances in your home, and one that owners rush to replace in case of a break-down. 听Keeping condenser coils clean, defrosting as needed and replacing door seals are among the most important that really make a difference.

refrigerator maintenance

Washing machine

When was the last time you replaced your washing machine鈥檚 hoses? If it鈥檚 been longer than three to five years, it鈥檚 probably time.

washing machine maintenance

Dryer

Although you may be in the habit of clearing lint after each cycle, don鈥檛 forget to occasionally tackle the filter chute too.

dryer maintenance

Air conditioner

Does your home smell a little dusty? Help your family breathe easier by changing your air conditioner filter.

air conditioner maintenance

Furnace

Cleaning out your furnace should be at the top of your to-do list, if you haven鈥檛 done so in the last year. 鈥淔orget to service your furnace and you could easily cut five years off the life of your system,鈥 says , of TV and radio show Today鈥檚 Homeowner. 听Keep energy and replacement costs at bay with semi-annual and annual furnace care.

furnace maintenance

Garbage disposal

While not all garbage disposal maintenance tasks are quick and easy, popping in some ice cubes while running cool water can help keep the blades clean.

garbage disposal maintenance

Water heater

Does your water heater have a 鈥渧acation鈥 setting? 听Using it while you are away for an extended period of time will help save energy, as will setting a safe and sufficient temperature.

water heater maintenance

Be sure to contact your home warranty company directly for the specific guidelines of your contract. For more information regarding selecting a home warranty, check out Reviews.com鈥檚 guide to .


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